Simple Machines
Directions: Fourth grade students will use an Inspiration template to create a visual organizer about the
6 simple machines.
OPEN THE INSPIRATION TEMPLATE :
1. Go to the 4th Grade Tech Page. (You should have a shortcut on your desktop.)
2. Click on the Simple Machines link.
3. Find and click on the Inspirations Simple Machines template.
4. Save the file to your name drive.
5. Open the file.
6. Minimize the window.
NAVIGATE BACK THE 4TH GRADE TECH PAGE AND THE SIMPLE MACHINES TABLE .
1. Click on EdHeads Simple Machines Glossary
2. Read about one of the six simple machines.
3. Toggle back to the Inspiration template and fill in the required information about that
machine. (Pictures will be added last.)
4. Continue until you have information about all 6 simple machines.
TO FIND CLIPART :
1. Type google.com in the web address bar.
2. Type simple machine (name of machine). For example:
a. Simple machine lever
b. Simple machine wheel and axle
c. Simple machine inclined plane
d. Simple machine pulleys
e. Simple machine wedge
f. Simple machine screw
3. Click on Images
4. Click on Show Options
5. Click on Clipart in the bar on the left.
6. Right click on the thumbnail picture that you want to use and click on Copy.
7. Toggle back to the Inspiration template.
8. Right click in the shape where the picture will go and then click on Paste.
CHANGE COLORS: MAKE THE GROUP OF SHAPES FOR EACH MACHINE A DIFFERENT COLOR.
1. Click on one of the shapes. Then hold down the Shift key and click on the other shapes for
that machine. Now you have selected a GROUP of shapes for a Simple Machine.
2. Select your color and font for that group.
HOW TO PRINT TO ONE PAGE:
1. Click on File > Print Options > Fit to one page.
2. Click on Preview and make sure your work fits on one page.
3. Put up your yellow card so that a teacher can check your work.
4. While you are waiting, toggle back to the 4th Grade Tech Page and explore some of the other
links about Simple Machines.